6 Self Care Tips That Don't Cost Anything
In the last year or two, self care has been a buzz-term of sorts. Everybody says 'self care is so important' –– in the Instagram caption of their $20 bath bomb soaks. Don't get me wrong, I love a good bath bomb, and relaxing baths are certainly a form of self care. But for those of us who don't have the time (or the budget) but still need a little self love, here are a few self care tips to make your day just a little brighter.
1. Make Your Bed
Not to sound like your mother, but... make your bed in the morning. This can serve as a motivator on days when you really don't want to get out of bed, and once you're up and at 'em with a clean(ish) space, things start to feel a little more settled. Plus, there's nothing like crawling back into a made bed at night.
2. Sign Up for Shine Texts
Shine Texts are a text service I use to start every day on a motivational note. Receive an SMS text or Facebook Message every day at whatever time you choose with small motivators to get your day off to a running start, or keep yourself motivated in the middle of the day. With little messages like –– "We can feel pressure to be 'normal' (family life, finances, etc). Spoiler: there's no normal. Set your own standards today." –– how could you not feel a little inspired? The best part: sometimes I forget I'm receiving one, and it's a pleasant surprise.
3. Take a Selfie
Whether you're feeling yourself or far from it, step in front of the best window light you can and take a couple of selfies. They don't have to go anywhere–– it's just a reminder for yourself that you existed, you persevered, you're getting through this day. Give your ego a little pat on the back because today, you did it.
4. Tiny Care Bot
Follow Tiny Care Bot on Twitter – it's an account that is at the ready with tiny self care tips whenever you scroll your feed. Each tip is like a baby step towards self care.
🏔: dont forget to take time to give your eyes a break and look outside please
— here's your reminder (@tinycarebot) January 19, 2018
5. Breathing Exercises
I'm not just talking about regular I'm-trying-to-stay-alive breathing... take a minute to just breathe. In through your nose, out through your mouth. If you can't stay on track, there are apps to help you focus your breathing like Stop, Breathe & Think and Breathe. Anything you need to get through is made just a little easier with a few deep breaths.
6. Don't Skip Breakfast
Even if you're on the go (or a tight budget), save a minute for breakfast. "Breakfast is the most important meal of the day" is a completely true saying that I wish I'd listened to a lot sooner. Get energized for the day, even if it's a quick snack-able bite while you're rushing to work.